Open AccessThe expression of a recombinant glycolate dehydrogenase polyprotein in potato ( S olanum tuberosum ) plastids strongly enhances photosynthesis and tuber yield
Author(s) -
Nölke Greta,
Houdelet Marcel,
Kreuzaler Fritz,
Peterhänsel Christoph,
Schillberg Stefan
Publication year - 2014
Publication title -
plant biotechnology journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 3.525
H-Index - 115
eISSN - 1467-7652
pISSN - 1467-7644
DOI - 10.1111/pbi.12178
Subject(s) - biology , photorespiration , photosynthesis , biochemistry , fructose , sucrose , starch , plastid , recombinant dna , dehydrogenase , chloroplast , enzyme , gene
Summary We have increased the productivity and yield of potato ( S olanum tuberosum ) by developing a novel method to enhance photosynthetic carbon fixation based on expression of a polyprotein ( DEF p) comprising all three subunits (D, E and F) of E scherichia coli glycolate dehydrogenase (Glc DH ). The engineered polyprotein retained the functionality of the native Glc DH complex when expressed in E . coli and was able to complement mutants deficient for the D, E and F subunits. Transgenic plants accumulated DEF p in the plastids, and the recombinant protein was active in planta , reducing photorespiration and improving CO 2 uptake with a significant impact on carbon metabolism. Transgenic lines with the highest DEF p levels and Glc DH activity produced significantly higher levels of glucose (5.8‐fold), fructose (3.8‐fold), sucrose (1.6‐fold) and transitory starch (threefold), resulting in a substantial increase in shoot and leaf biomass. The higher carbohydrate levels produced in potato leaves were utilized by the sink capacity of the tubers, increasing the tuber yield by 2.3‐fold. This novel approach therefore has the potential to increase the biomass and yield of diverse crops.